06/10/2026
Heads up!
π¨ Community Awareness Alert π¨
The Mansfield Police Department would like to make our community aware of a recent trend involving individuals soliciting donations at local shopping centers.
We have received reports of young individuals (teens to early 20s) approaching shoppers outside stores such as Target, Walmart, and Ross, claiming to be raising money for sports teams (basketball, football, etc.) for uniforms or other expenses.
Officers have made contact with several of these individuals and determined they were not affiliated with any legitimate team or organization. In these cases, the money collected was being directed to personal bank accounts.
We understand that Mansfield is a generous and supportive community, and we appreciate your willingness to give. However, we encourage everyone to be cautious when approached for donations in public places.
π‘ Tips for Giving Safely:
β’ Ask for official documentation or proof of affiliation
β’ Donate directly to verified schools, teams, or organizations
β’ Be cautious of individuals requesting money without adult supervision (parent, coach etc.)
β’ Be cautious of individuals requesting money outside of a business without knowledge/consent of the business
β’ Be cautious of individuals requesting money through personal payment apps
β’ When in doubt, itβs okay to politely decline
β οΈ If you observe suspicious activity:
Please do not confront the individuals. Instead, contact our non-emergency number at 817-473-0211. In an emergency, call 9-1-1.
Letβs continue to look out for one another and keep our community safe.